C07P19 - Burden

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Sometimes even good things can be ruined by societal pressures.

For me, Valentine's Day has become one of those "good ideas, ruined by commercialization and cultural guilt" holidays. At least, until a chat with Cory the other day. I was griping about how it almost seems as though card, chocolate, and jewelry companies have formed this secret council to convince people that if they don't buy their products for the Significant Other, then they are terrible, terrible mates. To which Cory replied, "Maybe they have, but think of it this way: It's a Ferengi holiday."

For those of you that aren't Trek fans, Ferengi are a race of highly capitalistic aliens that exalt Greed as the highest virtue. They have the most meaningful presence in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, which is my favorite of the Treks. Ferengi are actually a big part of why I like that Trek above the others, as I love their culture. I found myself imagining Quark learning of this strange Hu-mon holiday. "You mean...as a culture, you've put a price tag on love, and not buying enough for your mate is considered socially heartless and cruel? Really? And your company makes how much profit a year off this...monetary display of affections? Ha! There may be hope for your people after all!"

I think from now on I'm just going to imagine behind every Hallmark commercial or pink Hershey's love basket is Quark, jubilantly raking in piles of gold-pressed latinum.

...Maybe I should buy myself some chocolates this year.

What's your feelings on Valentine's day? Or, alternatively, what's your favorite Trek? (And out of curiosity - how do you feel about Trek vs. Star Wars, and is one better in your opinion?)